A match-up between the rising stars of the AFL and the true current champions proves to be an exciting affair. Can North take it to the Cats, or will their aversion to playing well against top sides continue to haunt them?

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The Kangaroos come off a demolishing performance against GWS, beating the new kids by over 20 goals. Geelong, meanwhile, played a game reminiscent of September more than April, defeating the Hawks by two points in a thriller.

Geelong will be aiming for an injury-free game after the knock-riddled affair of last Monday, while the Roos will seek to nullify the Cats’ star clearance power with their own embryonic mids.

Key Match-ups

Tom Hawkins v The Kangaroos Defence
Tomahawk has become dangerous in a serious way very quickly. His marking up the ground and general play have become sublime after his breakout game in the Grand Final last year. The Roos will need to watch him closely all day in order to prevent him becoming an outlet for the Cats.

Andrew Swallow v Joel SelwoodNew captains. Midfield stars. Huge influences. If Swallow loses, the Kangaroos almost certainly lose, although Geelong’s depth prevents the other side of this coin occurring.

Ryan Bastinac v the statisticiansIf he can go anywhere near last week’s effort, the stats men will be in overdrive, and the Roos will be on their way.

Final WordGeelong are simply too good for the Kangas, and will show it on the scoreboard.